That has protected U.S. sugar growers, but kept prices here at double the global level or more, a 2006 Commerce Department report said.

As a result, according to the agency, many U.S. makers of sugar-containing products such as candy have closed or relocated to Canada or Mexico. Imports of products containing sugar, meanwhile, have soared.

"It's been very hard to compete," Leva said. Smaller operations like the Pewaukee plant are "just getting knocked out," he said.

Stark was started in Milwaukee in 1939 and moved to Pewaukee in 1960. NECCO bought the firm in 1988.

Some Stark employees are being offered jobs in Massachusetts. The Pewaukee factory will be sold.

NECCO already makes the so-called conversation hearts in Revere, and will absorb the Pewaukee production there. Less certain is the fate of Candy Raisins.

Stark trademarked the translucent, gummy candies in 1976 and, according to NECCO's Web site - which describes their flavor as unusual and "an acquired taste" - they remain a local favorite.

Leva said NECCO probably would transfer Candy Raisin production to Massachusetts but wouldn't guarantee it Thursday.

"That decision has not been finalized," he said.

NECCO employs about 500 people in Revere. The firm has no other candy factories. Leva wouldn't disclose sales.